Sanwo-Olu declares war on urban decay, seeks Architects’ alliance

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called for deeper collaboration between architects and other built environment professionals to ensure sustainable, inclusive, and innovative urban development in Lagos.

Speaking at the 6th Distinguished Lecture Series of the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA), held at the Ecobank Pan African Centre, Victoria Island, the Governor, represented by his deputy, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, described architecture as a vital force in shaping environments where people live, work, and thrive.

“As Lagos continues to evolve into a megacity and economic powerhouse, strategic partnerships with professionals like architects are critical to achieving world-class infrastructure and sustainable urban planning,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu reiterated that architecture plays a central role in national development, influencing economic growth, social wellbeing, and environmental responsibility. He praised architects for their capacity to transform Lagos into a model of resilience, innovation, and inclusiveness.

He urged built environment professionals to speak up and contribute to shaping public policies that promote sustainable and aesthetically pleasing urban spaces.

“Civilisation is best sustained when people maintain a decent, beautiful environment — one shaped and guided by competent professionals. We must not be silent when it matters most,” the Governor said.

Commending the NIA for its consistent commitment to excellence and visionary leadership through its lecture series, Sanwo-Olu encouraged continuous engagement and knowledge sharing to raise the bar of architectural excellence in Nigeria.

Delivering the keynote lecture titled “Harmony in Diversity”, retired Lagos State Permanent Secretary and first female NIA President, Arc. Mrs. Olubukunola Ejiwunmi, advocated for policies that promote sustainability, equity, and respect for Nigeria’s cultural richness.

“Harmony is not a passive ideal,  it is an active pursuit,” she said.

“It demands deep listening, purposeful design, and courageous leadership. As architects, we must not only build with concrete and steel but with conviction and compassion.”

She stressed the need to embrace diversity not merely as a slogan, but as a professional and national creed.

Earlier, NIA President, Arc. Mobolaji Adeniyi (FNIA), in her welcome address, described the annual Distinguished Lecture Series as a celebration of architectural excellence and a tradition upheld by past presidents of the institute.

She described the lecture theme as timely and inspiring, adding that it would challenge architects to harness Nigeria’s cultural diversity in shaping a more inclusive and sustainable built environment.